Risk factors, Complications & Prevention

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Risk factors

Risk factors forCOPDinclude:

Exposure to tobacco smoke.The most significant risk factor forCOPDis long-term cigarette smoking. The more years you smoke and the more packs you smoke, the greater your risk. Pipe smokers, cigar smokers and marijuana smokers also may be at risk, as well as people exposed to large amounts of secondhand smoke.

People with asthma who smoke.The combination of asthma, a chronic inflammatory airway disease, and smoking increases the risk ofCOPDeven more.

Occupational exposure to dusts and chemicals.Long-term exposure to chemical fumes, vapors and dusts in the workplace can irritate and inflame your lungs.

Exposure to fumes from burning fuel.In the developing world, people exposed to fumes from burning fuel for cooking and heating in poorly ventilated homes are at higher risk of developingCOPD.

Age.COPDdevelops slowly over years, so most people are at least 40 years old when symptoms begin.

Genetics.The uncommon genetic disorder alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency is the cause of some cases ofCOPD. Other genetic factors likely make certain smokers more susceptible to the disease.

Complications

COPDcan cause many complications, including:

Respiratory infections.People withCOPDare more likely to catch colds, the flu and pneumonia. Any respiratory infection can make it much more difficult to breathe and could cause further damage to lung tissue. An annual flu vaccination and regular vaccination against pneumococcal pneumonia can prevent some infections.

High blood pressure in lung arteries.COPDmay cause high blood pressure in the arteries that bring blood to your lungs (pulmonary hypertension).

Depression.Difficulty breathing can keep you from doing activities that you enjoy. And dealing with serious illness can contribute to development of depression. Talk to your doctor if you feel sad or helpless or think that you may be experiencing depression.

Prevention

Unlike some diseases,COPDhas a clear cause and a clear path of prevention. The majority of cases are directly related to cigarette smoking, and the best way to preventCOPDis to never smoke — or to stop smoking now.

If you're a longtime smoker, these simple statements may not seem so simple, especially if you've tried quitting — once, twice or many times before. But keep trying to quit. It's critical to find a tobacco cessation program that can help you quit for good. It's your best chance for preventing damage to your lungs.

Occupational exposure to chemical fumes and dust is another risk factor forCOPD. If you work with this type of lung irritant, talk to your supervisor about the best ways to protect yourself, such as using respiratory protective equipment.